Sconul Access

Covid Update

The SCONUL Access scheme is currently suspended

 

The current position

We are sorry to say that the SCONUL Access Scheme is suspended as a result of the current pandemic. This means that we cannot process new applications or renew applications, and that participating libraries are not accepting visitors from other libraries under the scheme. We are afraid that no exceptions are possible to this rule. This is because capacity within member libraries is severely restricted due to the need for social distancing. Universities, including university libraries, are required to abide by the relevant government guidelines and this means that it is not possible for libraries to facilitate external visitors in most cases.

 

Next steps

We remain fully committed to opening up the scheme again as soon as it is safe and practical to do so, and we are keeping this under regular review. Given the information currently available, we believe it to be unlikely that the scheme will return to full functioning this academic year (2020-21). We will be consulting member institutions on routes to reopening the scheme later this academic year.

 

Help in the meantime

In the meantime, our member libraries are doing all they can to ensure that their staff, researchers and students can access the books and journals they need during this difficult time, and scheme users wanting to use particular resources should speak to the library staff at their own institution who will be able to assist. Those wishing to access archives and special collections should do the same – staff at their home library will be able to provide advice and support on routes to access.

 

 

SCONUL Access is a reciprocal library membership scheme which enables you to use other university libraries in the UK and Ireland.

Can I use it?

• If you are a member of staff (both academic and support staff), postgraduate research student, taught postgraduate student on a full-time course, or a part-time, distance learning or placement student, you may be able to borrow books from other college or university libraries
• If you are a full-time undergraduate you may be able to use the resources of other college or university libraries for reference.

Which libraries belong to the scheme?

Most Higher Education libraries in the UK are part of the scheme, however not all of them offer access to all users.  You can find a list of member libraries on the SCONUL Access website.

How can I join?

• Apply online on the Sconul Access website

• Select your user category from the drop down list (e.g. Full Time Undergraduate), then select your home institution 

• Click Find to display the institutions you are eligible to access
  Results can be displayed as a list or click on the map tab and enter a postcode or region

• Select the institution you wish to visit, click Apply for access and fill in and submit the online form.  Please note, it is not necessary to make multiple applications since you only need to apply once to visit other university libraries within the scheme

• You will then receive an email confirming that your application has been accepted.  If your application has been denied due to an issue with your home library account, you will be notified of this by email

• Print out the email and take this along with your ID card, to each institution you wish to visit and the staff there will enrol you onto the scheme

• Always check the website before visiting another library as they may have special requirements for joining or have restrictions to access during examination periods.

How long will my membership last?

Three years, or the end of your contract, course or placement if this is sooner.

How do I find out more about SCONUL Access?

Ask at either the Falmouth Campus Library or Penryn Campus Library or visit the SCONUL Access website.